Letter to Edith

Ah yes the Young Mr. Steinbeck, I remember teaching him as if it was just yesterday. I remember his eagerness to learn and find the so called "secret formula" of writing. I also remember the crushed spirit he wore on your face after I made him realise, writing is not something which just can be done. There is no Secret formula to writing, to create a good writer i had to break him down first, empty him, turn him into a blank canvas. I am pleased that my old student has keep all that i have taught him, in check all these years. I do not feel sorry for the grades I gave him when he was younger, as his stories lacked a certain umph. Although now i can see that he has grown into a great writer, and done this even though he wasn't the best their was. I see that Steinbeck still has things to learn, but has made remarkable progress over the years, although he still believes in this "secret formula". I am pleased to see that he regards me as a good teacher, it was a pleasure knowing that i helped forge such a vivid mind. Ah yes i remember telling him about the hardships of being a writer, he had the odds against him but he still succeeded. I honestly thought that he would fail, but eh proved me wrong. If their is one more thing i can teach you it is that nothing gets easier it is always something you have to deal with.